The God of Extremes

“For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His faithful love for those who fear Him. As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:11-12)

There is nothing small about our God. Of course, He created small. He created the atom, which is barely visible with the best electron microscope. Then, there are sub-atomic particles like electrons, protons, and neutrons which we cannot see at all yet. And now we are told that there are even smaller particles that make up the “fabric” of the universe, something called “dark matter.” Interesting. So, God created small, but there is nothing small about Him. He created the universe, which we are unable to measure.

Someone capable of such feats is unlimited and, in fact, is extreme. We sometimes watch “extreme sports” on television, but that is paltry in comparison to what we’re talking about here. That’s like comparing a drop of water to the ocean.

Our God is God of the extreme. Those who “fear” God are those who revere Him, and they revere and worship Him because they know Him. We know Him because we believe in Him and trust Him. And He loves us with a love that is immeasurable, like the universe He created. God’s love for us is forever faithful.

God’s forgiveness of our sins is also extreme. How far is “the east from the west?” There is no end. When God forgives us, it is total. Paul wrote, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) When God forgives our sins, our sins no longer exist. We are free. And that’s because God is extreme, and worthy of extreme praise.”

Lord, We have no means for measuring Your love and Your forgiveness. We only know that they exist. The cross helps us understand something of Your love and willingness to forgive, and yet we know that Your love goes beyond even that. We thank You, and we give You the praise of our hearts. Amen.